Preschool swim classes

Please read this memo carefully to learn about the policies in place.

It is important to remember that you have a key role to play during classes, as well as every time your child is in or around the water. You can create a safe environment by setting an example of water safety for your child. Your involvement will help them to feel at ease and confident in their new environment.

Locker-room access

• Access to the locker rooms is permitted 20 minutes before and after classes only.
• Only one parent can accompany a child.
• A family locker room is available for children and parents of the opposite gender. We encourage parents and children of the same gender to use the regular locker rooms.
• Any parent who wishes to swim during their child’s lesson must pay the entry fee.
• All other parents must sit in the stands once class has started.

Shoes and boots

• For hygienic and cleanliness reasons, any boots or shoes worn outdoors are not permitted in wet changing rooms or the area around the pool. Parents are encouraged to set a good example by removing their boots and shoes or wearing sandals.

Strollers

• Strollers are not permitted in the area around the pool. They must be left at the exit to the family changing rooms or near the lifejacket stand.
• To access the relaxation pool (Starfish and Duck levels), parents may push the stroller through the corridor next to the windows along the training pool.

Before class

• If your child has a contagious disease, open wound or diarrhea, please do not come to class.
• Take a shower before entering the water and ensure your child has gone to the bathroom.
• Remember to walk calmly around the pool while holding your child’s hand.
• Listen to the monitor’s instructions BEFORE entering the water.

Tips for young children:

• Make sure you give your child something to drink before they enter the pool. This way, they’ll be less likely to drink the pool water.
• Shower with your child so they’ll be less likely to pee in the pool once they ouch the water.

During class

• Be sure to wear a suit designed for swimming and avoid Bermuda-style swim shorts, as these are long and can be uncomfortable to wear in the water. There are also swim diapers available for young children.
• You’re allowed to wear a rash-guard type swim t-shirt (not cotton) as well as bring your beach towel to the side of the pool to keep warm.
• ALWAYS let the monitor know if you’re leaving the pool, no matter the reason.
• To enter the water, be sure to use the safe method taught to you in class.
• Before trying something new, wait for the monitor to show you how or ask them for help.
• Everyone progresses at their own speed. Be sure not to compare yourself to others.
• Repeat movements over and over. That’s the key to learning!

Tips for young children:

• Remove your child from the water right away if they’re cold or uncomfortable (blue lips, shivering, crying, etc.)
• To ensure continuity, we suggest that the child always be accompanied by the same adult.
• We encourage you to sing along, be dynamic, encourage your child, and offer help to make the class as fun as possible.
• No need for makeup or perfectly fixed hair. Parents will be diving underwater, too!

After class

• Walk calmly around the pool with your child. Keep an eye out for children wrapped up in their towels, as they can’t protect themselves in the event of a fall.
• Dry your child off, have them blow their nose and be sure to wipe their ears well.
• Cover your child’s mouth and nose with a scarf so they can breathe warm air.
• Protect their ears from the wind and cold.
• Have your child practice in the bathtub. Tip: Make the bathwater the same temperature as the pool.

Absence

• You will not be able to make up a missed class. However, you are welcome to practice during free swim times (a fee applies).

• The P5 parking is located at 3200 Viau street and is accessible any time the Sports Centre is open.
• Preferential rate of $5 (limit of 4 hours per day)
• Instructions: take a ticket from the machine at the entrance, keep it with you and scan it on the machine inside the Sports Centre.